A shadow of its former self, The Simpsons gave up on smart comedy and snappy satire long ago. The crude pop culture gags and associations which took their place are usually awkward and a little bit desperate. Except for this one.

Unlike other recent attempts, which feel more geared towards the frantic, fleeting seizure of another show's fandom for a week, this tribute to the works of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli seems like it came straight from the heart. The Joe Hisaishi impersonation on the soundtrack only adds to the gesture.